Controller and expansion unit for controller

ABSTRACT

An expansion unit  50, 60  or  70  is connected to a controller body  10  including an analog direction key  12 , a digital direction key  14 , command buttons  20   a - 20   z , command levers  22   l   , 22   r , etc. An expansion unit  50  including a photo emitting unit  52  is connected to thereby make the controller cordless. An expansion unit  60  including a photo detecting unit  65 , whereby shooting games in which an enemy on a monitor screen can be shot can be played. An expansion unit  70  including a vibration unit  75  is connected, whereby a vibration is given to the controller body  10  to make a shooting game more realistic. New functions can be added to the conventional controller, and the new functions can be added freely without making no change to the controller body.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a controller which outputsvarious instructions to an electronic device, such as a game device, byoperation of an operator.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] More than several years have passed since video game devices fordomestic use first appeared, and recently a large variety ofentertaining games have been developed. Video games for the domestic useare very popular as an entertainment. Domestic game devices areconnected to input means called controllers. Players operate thecontrollers to output various instructions to the game devices.

[0003] Thus the controllers intervene between the players and the gamedevices, and act as a man-machine interface, and thus are very importantto the game devices. The ease of operation as well as the functionalability of the controllers are closely related to the feasibility andentertainment value of games.

[0004] Various types of controllers for the domestic game devices havebeen proposed, but in general most controllers for the domestic videogame devices include direction keys which command directions as well asa plurality of command buttons.

[0005] However, the command buttons of the conventional controller canmake only one command by one operation thereof, and is unsuitable tocontinuously make commands. It is very difficult especially to makecommand which are continuously changed. When continuously changedcommands must be made, nothing other than unnatural operations ofpushing the command buttons for various periods of time or pushing thecommand buttons repeatedly a number of times.

[0006] The direction buttons of the conventional controller can commandonly four or eight directions, and cannot command directions betweenthese directions, and continuous direction changes.

[0007] The conventional controller originally had only the directionkeys and two command buttons, but as games have become complicated, twocommand buttons have been increased to three, and recently six commandbuttons have become common. Six buttons are a limit to be easilyoperated by one player, which has made it difficult to meet new gameswhich require more command buttons.

[0008] Recently the method for operating the controller has becomeincreasingly complicated, which makes it difficult for players to stablyoperate the controller. A controller which can be stably operated isrequired.

[0009] When a game producer thinks up contents of a game, it isnecessary for him to keep in mind, the ease of operational of thecontroller. Also, the functional ability of a controller and gamecontents are closely related. Usually common controllers are used whengames are designed. Thus, their functional ability and ease of operationof the controller limit the contents of a game.

[0010] Conversely, in order to give priority to the game's contents, newcontrollers that are more suitable for the game contents are provided insome cases. Unfortunately, a large burden is places on the users.

[0011] To add controller functions to suit the contents of a particulargame, expansion units can be connected to a controller. In order for anyexpansion unit to be connected, a controller which permits any expansionunit which will appear to be connected must be designed. This methodalso has a limit.

[0012] Conventional controllers, on the other hand, are totallyinconsiderate of a player's grip. For example, the contour of aconventional controller is merely rectangular or parallel, and sometimesa handle is merely provided on the controller.

[0013] Players may be children or adults, and may have various handsizes and various gripping habits. Depending on the game contents, itmay be better to change carrying way of the controller. The conventionalcontroller does not meet such requirements.

[0014] An object of the present invention is to provide a controllerexpansion unit which can freely realize a controller having a functionsuitable for contents of a game.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide acontroller which can be gripped in various ways according to theoperator's preference.

[0016] Further another object of the present invention is to provide acontroller which can be gripped in ways such that operators can easilyoperate the controller.

[0017] Further another object of the present invention is to provide acontroller which can make commands which are continuously changed.

[0018] Further another object of the present invention is to provide acontroller which can command an arbitrary direction and continuouslychanged directions.

[0019] Further another object of the present invention is to provide acontroller which can include a number of command buttons.

[0020] Further another object of the present invention is to provide acontroller which can be stably operated.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The above-described objects are achieved by a controllerexpansion unit which is to be inserted between a controller bodyincluding an operation key and a game apparatus, and which supplies acommand signal generated by the operation key of the controller body tothe game apparatus body, whereby new functions can be added to theconventional controller, and the new functions can be added freelywithout making no change to the controller body.

[0022] The above-described controller expansion unit may comprisefunction expansion means for expanding a function of the controllerbody, and conversion means for converting the command signal from thecontroller body, based on a function expanded by the function expansionmeans, and supplying the converted command signal to the game apparatusbody.

[0023] In the above-described controller expansion unit, the functionexpansion means may include photo signal outputting means for outputtingthe signal to the game apparatus body as a photo signal, and the photosignal outputted by the photo signal outputting means may be detected byphoto signal detecting means of the game apparatus body, whereby thecontroller can be cordless.

[0024] In the above-described controller expansion unit, the functionexpansion means may include photo signal detecting means for detecting aphoto signal from the outside, and the conversion means may add thephoto signal from the photo signal detecting means to the command signalfrom the controller body, whereby gun games in which an optical signalfrom the video monitor is detected to shoot an enemy on a monitorscreen.

[0025] In the above-described controller expansion unit, the functionexpansion means may include vibration means for giving a vibration tothe controller body, based on the signal from the game apparatus body orthe controller body, whereby in a shooting game, for example, vibrationsgenerated upon shooting are added to thereby make the game realistic.

[0026] In the above-described controller expansion unit, the functionexpansion means may include an operation key for effecting a specificoperation, and the conversion means may add an operation signalgenerated by the specific operation keys to the command signal from thecontroller body, whereby new operational keys can be easily added.

[0027] In the above-described controller expansion unit, the functionexpansion means may include memory means for storing information, andthe memory means may store information supplied from the game apparatusbody or the controller body, or information supplied to the gameapparatus body or the controller body, whereby new memories are added tothereby reinforce functions of the game apparatus.

[0028] In the above-described controller expansion unit, the functionexpansion means may include display means for displaying information,and the display means may display information from the game apparatusbody or the controller body, whereby new image display means is added tothereby reinforce functions of the game apparatus.

[0029] In the above-described controller expansion unit, the functionexpansion means may include clock means for counting time, and timedisplay means for displaying time, and the conversion means may add timeinformation counted by the clock means to the command signal from thecontroller body, whereby games making use of time information can beplayed.

[0030] In the above-described controller expansion unit, the functionexpansion means include rotation angle detecting means for detecting arotation angle of the controller body supported thereon, and theconversion means may add rotation angle signals detected by the rotationangle detecting means to the command signal from the controller body,whereby the controller body can be operated as a handle of a car orothers.

[0031] In the above-described controller expansion unit, the functionexpansion means may include inclination detecting means for detecting aninclination of the controller body, and the conversion means may add aninclination signal detected by the inclination detecting means to thecommand signal supplied from the controller body, whereby an inclinationof the controller body can be an operation signal, which make gamesrealistic.

[0032] In the above-described controller expansion unit, the conversionmeans supplies an inclination signal given by the inclination detectingmeans in place of a direction command signal from the controller body,whereby a direction command can be made by an inclination of thecontroller, which realizes games having new operational feelings.

[0033] The above-described objects are achieved by a controllercomprising a controller body including an operation key, and theabove-described controller expansion unit.

[0034] The above-described objects are achieved by a controllercomprising, on an operation surface of a body of the controller, adirection key for a direction command, and a plurality of commandbuttons for outputting a single command, the operation surface of thecontroller body having a substantially circular outer edge so that anoperator can grip the controller body at any positions around the outeredge of the operation surface.

[0035] In the above-described controller, a part of the outer edge ofthe operation surface of the controller body may be shaped in relationto a specific direction of the direction key so that, when the operatorholds the operation surface with his hand, he can know the specificdirection of the direction key, whereby when an operator grips theoperational surface with a hand, a specific direction of the directionkey can be known.

[0036] In the above-described controller, the controller body mayinclude lugs to be held by the operator, and a part of a lug may beshaped in relation to a specific direction of the direction key so that,when the operator grips the operation surface with his hand, he can knowthe specific direction of the direction key, whereby an operator canknow a specific direction of the direction key.

[0037] The above-described objects are achieved by a controllercomprising: a controller body; a direction key disposed on a firstoperational surface of the controller body, and commanding a direction;a plurality of command buttons disposed on the first operational surfaceand outputting one command by one operation; and a command leverdisposed on a second operational surface of the controller andoutputting continuously changed command amounts by one operation,whereby continuously changed commands can be easily made.

[0038] In the above-described controller it is preferable that thedirection key comprises: a direction key operating unit; discretedirection determining means for determining a specific direction out ofa plurality of prescribed directions, based on a state of the directionkey operation unit; and continuous direction determining means fordetermining continuous command directions, based on a state of thedirection key operation unit, whereby an arbitrary direction command andcontinuously changed direction commands can be made.

[0039] In the above-described controller it is preferable that thedirection key further including change-over means for changing over thediscrete direction determining means and the continuous directiondetermining means to each other.

[0040] In the above-described controller it is preferable that thecommand lever is a command button which outputs one command by oneoperation.

[0041] In the above-described controller it is preferable that thedirection key and the command buttons are disposed at positions whichfacilitate operation with the left and the right thumbs of an operatorwhen he holds the controller with the left and the right hands, and thecommand lever is disposed at a position which facilitates operation withthe fingers other than the thumbs, whereby a number of buttons and keyscan be easily operated.

[0042] In the above-described controller it is preferable that thecontroller body includes two grips to be held by an operator; and thedirection key and the command buttons are disposed at positions whichfacilitate operation with the left and the right thumbs of the operatorwhen he holds the two grips with the left and the right hands, and thecommand lever is disposed at a position which facilitates operation withthe fingers other than the thumbs. When the controller is operated, heldwith the hands, the grips are firmly held with both hands, which makesthe operation stable.

[0043] In the above-described controller it is preferable that aprojection is provided on the second operational surface of thecontroller body; the controller can be placed on a flat surface,supported by the projection and the two grips; the direction key and thecommand buttons are disposed at positions which facilitate operationwith the left and the right thumbs of an operator when the controller isplaced on a flat surface, and the command lever is disposed at aposition which facilitates with the fingers other than the thumbs. Whenthe controller is placed on a desk or the like to be operated, thecontroller is set on a flat surface such as a desk or the like,supported by the projection and the two grips, which makes the operationstable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044]FIG. 1 is a plan view of the controller according to a firstembodiment of the present invention.

[0045]FIG. 2 is a right side view of the controller according to thefirst embodiment.

[0046]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the back side of the controlleraccording to the first embodiment as slantly viewed.

[0047]FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the controller according to thefirst embodiment in a state in which the controller is held by anoperator.

[0048]FIG. 5 is a rear side view of the controller according to thefirst embodiment of the present invention with an expansion unit isdetached from the controller body.

[0049]FIG. 6 is detailed views of an expansion connector of thecontroller body of the controller, and a connector of an expansion unit.

[0050]FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the controller according to the firstembodiment with an expansion unit which does not add expansion functionsconnected to.

[0051]FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the controller according to the firstembodiment with an expansion unit which adds expansion functionsconnected to.

[0052]FIG. 9 is views of pin arrangements of the connectors of anexpansion unit and the controller body of the controller according tothe first embodiment of the present invention.

[0053]FIG. 10 is explanatory views of conversion of command signals fromthe controller body which is conducted by the expansion unit accordingto the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0054]FIG. 11 is a block diagram of the conventional controller with anexpansion unit connected to.

[0055]FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example of the expansion unitfor the controller according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

[0056]FIG. 13 is a block diagram of an example of the expansion unit forthe controller according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention, which uses infrared ray signals.

[0057]FIG. 14 is a block diagram of an example of the expansion unit forthe controller according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention, which includes a photo detector.

[0058]FIG. 15 is a block diagram of an example of the expansion unit forthe controller according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention, which includes a vibration unit.

[0059]FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an example of the expansion unitfor the controller according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention, which includes a joy stick.

[0060]FIG. 17 is a block diagram of an example of the expansion unit ofthe controller according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention, including the joy stick.

[0061]FIG. 18 is a plan view of another example of the expansion unitincluding a joy stick for the controller according to the firstembodiment of the present invention.

[0062]FIG. 19 is a perspective view of said another example of theexpansion unit including the joy stick for the controller according tothe first embodiment of the present invention.

[0063]FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an example of the expansion unitincluding a track ball for the controller according to the firstembodiment of the present invention.

[0064]FIG. 21 is a block diagram of the example of the expansion unitincluding the track ball for the controller according to the firstembodiment.

[0065]FIG. 22 is a plan view of another example of the expansion unitincluding the track ball for the controller according to the firstembodiment of the present invention.

[0066]FIG. 23 is a perspective view of said another example of theexpansion unit including the track ball for the controller according tothe first embodiment of the present invention.

[0067]FIG. 24 is a perspective view of said another example of theexpansion unit which adds a memory module to the controller according tothe first embodiment of the present invention.

[0068]FIG. 25 is a block diagram of the example of the expansion unitwhich adds a memory module to the controller according to the firstembodiment of the present invention.

[0069]FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an example of the expansion unitincluding an image display for the controller according to the firstembodiment of the present invention.

[0070]FIG. 27 is a block diagram of the example of the expansion unitincluding the image display unit for the controller according to thefirst embodiment of the present invention.

[0071]FIG. 28 is a plan view of an example of the expansion unitincluding a clock display unit for the controller according to the firstembodiment of the present invention.

[0072]FIG. 29 is a block diagram of the example of the expansion unitincluding the time display unit for the controller according to thefirst embodiment of the present invention.

[0073]FIG. 30 is a perspective view of an example of the expansion unitincluding a handle shaft for the controller according to the firstembodiment of the present invention.

[0074]FIG. 31 is a block diagram of the example of the expansion unitincluding the handle shaft for the controller according to the firstembodiment of the present invention.

[0075]FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the held state of the example ofthe expansion unit including hand shaft for the controller according tothe first embodiment of the present invention.

[0076]FIG. 33 is a perspective view of an example of the expansion unitincluding an inclination detecting unit for the controller according tothe first embodiment of the present invention.

[0077]FIG. 34 is a block diagram of the example of the expansion unitincluding the inclination detecting unit for the controller according tothe first embodiment of the present invention.

[0078]FIG. 35 is a plan view of the controller according to a secondembodiment of the present invention.

[0079]FIG. 36 is a front view of the controller according to the secondembodiment of the present invention.

[0080]FIG. 37 is a right side view of the controller according to thesecond embodiment of the present invention.

[0081]FIG. 38 is a perspective view of an example of the expansion unitincluding an inclination detection unit with a vibration function of thecontroller according to the second embodiment.

[0082]FIG. 39 is a backside view of the controller according to thesecond embodiment of the present invention with the expansion unitremoved from the controller body.

[0083]FIG. 40 is a broken perspective view of the example of theexpansion unit including an inclination detection unit with thevibration function of the controller according to the second embodiment.

[0084]FIG. 41 is a block diagram of the example of the expansion unitincluding an inclination detection unit with the vibration function ofthe controller according to the second embodiment.

[0085]FIG. 42 is an explanatory view of an operation of the example ofthe expansion unit including an inclination detection unit with thevibration function of the controller according to the second embodiment.

[0086]FIG. 43 is a plan view of the controller according to a thirdembodiment of the present invention.

[0087]FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the controller according to thethird embodiment of the present invention as viewed slantly from theback.

[0088]FIG. 45 is a right side view of the controller according to thethird embodiment of the present invention.

[0089]FIG. 46 is a bottom view of the controller according to the thirdembodiment of the present invention.

[0090]FIG. 47 is an explanatory view of a mechanism of the direction keyof the controller according to the third embodiment of the presentinvention.

[0091]FIG. 48 is an explanatory view of a mechanism of the command leverof the controller according to the third embodiment of the presentinvention.

[0092]FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the controller according to thethird embodiment of the present invention, which shows an operationalstate.

[0093]FIG. 50 is a block diagram of a circuit of the controlleraccording to the third embodiment of the present invention which shows astructure thereof.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0094] [A First Embodiment]

[0095] The controller according to a first embodiment of the presentinvention will be explained with reference to FIGS. 1 to 34. FIG. 1 is aplan view of the controller according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2is a right side view of the controller according to the presentembodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective rear side view of the controlleraccording to the present embodiment as slantly viewed. FIG. 4 is aperspective view of the controller according to the present embodiment,which shows a way in which an operator holds the controller. FIG. 5 is aperspective rear side view of the controller according to the presentembodiment in a state where the expansion unit are detached from thecontroller body. FIG. 6 is views of pin arrangements of a connector ofthe expansion unit and of an expansion socket of the controller body.

[0096] (Structure of the Controller)

[0097] The controller according to the present embodiment comprises acontroller body 10 and an expansion unit 30.

[0098] The controller body 10 provides basic functions of thecontroller. As shown in FIG. 1, a start button 16 and a change-overswitch 18 are disposed at a central lower part of an operation side 10 aon the front side of the controller body 19, an analog direction key 12and a digital direction key 14 are disposed on the left side of theoperation face 10 a, and six command buttons 20 x, 20 y, 20 z, 20 a, 20b, 20 c are disposed on the right side of the operation face 10 a. Acommand lever 22 l is disposed on the central left side of an operationside 10 c on the back side of the controller body 10, and a commandlever 22 r is disposed on the central right side of the operation side10 d. A screw hole 29 for screwing is formed in the center of the backside of the controller body 10.

[0099] As described above, the controller according to the presentembodiment has the analog direction key 12, the digital direction key14, the start button 16, the change-over switch 18 and the commandbuttons 20 x, 2 y, 20 z, 20 a, 20 b, 20 c on the operation side 10 a onthe front side, and the command levers 22 l, 22 r respectively onoperation sides 10 c, 10 d on the back side.

[0100] The start button 16 is of the type that one command can beinputted with one push. The start button 16, which is disposed at thecentral lower part of the operation side 10 a, is difficult to pressfrequently, and is mainly used to give commands that are not used duringa game, such as the start command.

[0101] The change-over switch 18 is provided for ensuring compatibilitywith conventional controllers. When the change-over switch 18 is slid tothe left, the compatible mode which is the same as the conventionalcontrollers is available. In this mode, the analog direction key 12 isinvalid while the digital direction key 14, the start button 16, thecommand buttons 20 x, 20 y, 20 z, 20 a, 20 b, 20 c and the commandlevers 22 l, 22 r are valid. Games which are played by the use of theconventional controllers can be played by the use of the innovativecontroller according to the present embodiment. When the change-overswitch 18 is slid to the right, the analog direction key 12 is valid,and games which are played by the use of the innovative controlleraccording to the present embodiment can be played.

[0102] The present embodiment includes two direction keys 12, 14. Theanalog direction key 12 commands all continuous directions over 360°,thus making the so-called analog direction commands. The digitaldirection key 14 commands 8 separate preset directions, thus making theso-called digital direction commands. Both direction keys 12, 14, whichare disposed on the left side of the front operation side 10 a, areusually operated with the left hand of a player.

[0103] The analog direction key 12 has an operation plate (not shown)which is free to tilt by operations of a player. Based on the tiltdirection of the operation plate, a command direction is detected.

[0104] The digital direction key 14 has an operation plate (not shown)which is free to tilt by operations of a player. When the operationplate is tilted, switches (not shown) disposed on the upper, lower, leftand right sides of the plate are pressed to detect 8 directionsincluding the upper and lower directions, the left and right directionsand the intermediate directions therebetween.

[0105] The command buttons 20 x, 20 y, 20 z, 20 a, 20 b, 20 c are of thetype that one command is inputted by one push of one of the buttons. Thebuttons 20 x, 20 y, 20 z 20 a, 20 b, 20 c, which are disposed on theright side of the operation side 10 a on the front side, are usuallyoperated with the thumb of the right hand of an operator.

[0106] The command levers 22 l, 22 r are pulled toward the operator toinput continuously changing command signals. The command levers 22 l, 22r, which are disposed on the operation sides 10 c, 10 d on the left andright sides of the back side, are operated by pulling them toward theoperator with the fingers of both hands except the thumbs, e.g., withthe index fingers and the middle fingers when the operator holds thecontroller with both hands.

[0107] The command levers 22 l, 22 r respectively include operationlevers (not shown). The command levers 22 l, 22 r are operated tothereby swing the operation levers, and can output continuously changingcommand signals corresponding to swing angles of the operation levers.

[0108] As shown in FIG. 3, the expansion unit 30 is mounted on thecenter of the back side of the controller body 10. The command levers 22l, 22 r are disposed on the operation sides 10 c, 10 d on the left andthe right sides of the expansion unit 30.

[0109] As shown in FIG. 1, the controller body 10 has a substantiallycircular shape which is defined by an outer edge about 13 cm in diameterof the operation side 10 a. This suitably sized circular edge allows aplayer to comfortably grip the controller at any position around theouter edge of the operation side 10 a. To enable an operator tocomfortably operate the controller, it is preferred that the circularshape of the operation side 10 a of the controller body 10 has adiameter of about 9-17 cm.

[0110] The outer edge of the operation side 10 a of the controller body10 defines the substantially circular shape but defines a larger-radiusarc on the left side 10 b of the analog direction key 12. In the presentembodiment, the arc has a diameter of about twice the diameter of thecircular shape of the operation side 10 a, i.e., an about 26 cm indiameter, and has an arc length of about 8.5 cm. A direction of the arcon the left side 10 b substantially agrees with a specific direction(upward direction in FIG. 1) of the analog direction key 12. Accordinglywhen a player holds the controller body 10, he can know the upwarddirection of the analog direction key 12 by the touch of his palms, andcan play a game without looking at the controller. To enable a player tocomfortably operate the controller, it is preferable that the arc of theleft side 10 b has a diameter of about 18-34 cm and an arc length ofabout 6-11 cm.

[0111] When a player operates the controller according to the presentembodiment, gripping it with the hands, as shown in FIG. 4, the edge ofthe operation side 10 a of the controller 10 is held with both hands. Toenable a player to comfortably hold the controller with both hands, itis preferable that the controller body 10 has an about 2-4 cm-thickness,and the parts of the controller body 10 where the command levers 22 l,22 r are disposed have an about 4-8 cm-thickness, which is about twicethe thickness of the controller body 10.

[0112] When a player grips the controller with both hands, the thumb ofthe left hand operates the analog direction key 12 or the digitaldirection key 14 on the front side, and the index or middle finger ofthe left hand operates the command lever 22 l on the back side, whilethe thumb of the right hand operates the command buttons 20 x, 20 y, 20z, 20 a, 20 b, 20 c on the front side, and the index or middle finger ofthe right hand operates the command lever 22 r on the back side.

[0113] When the analog direction key 12 and the digital direction key 14are operated, as shown in FIG. 4, the left side 10 b is gripped by theleft hand with the arcuate portion of the left side 10 b held by thepalm of the left hand, whereby direction commands can be made, with areference direction of the analog direction key 12, kept in mind.

[0114] Especially, since the analog direction key 12 does not respondwith click touch, as does the digital direction key 14, a player will beat a loss as to his operation direction without the left side 10 b. Thusit is very significant to provide the left side 10 b with the curvedportion having a large diameter.

[0115] As to the digital direction key 14, although it is possible toknow a command direction of the digital direction 14 based on clicktouch alone, the presence of the flat left side 10 b ensures that aplayer knows his operation direction without failure.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 3, the expansion unit 30 is mounted in thecenter of the back side of the controller body 10. The expansion unit 30is inserted between the controller 10 and the game device 200, andsupplies command signals from the controller body 10 produced byoperating the various operation keys on the controller body 10. Theexpansion unit 30 is removable from the controller body 10 to bereplaced as required.

[0117] The controller with the expansion unit 30 mounted on has thecentral portion of the controller body 10 projected as shown in FIG. 3.Controllers are usually handled roughly. When the controller is droppedor hit against other objects, the command levers 22 l, 22 r are disposedon the operation sides 10 c, 10 d which are hollows by the expansionunit 30 projected from the back side of the controller body 10 to beprotected from direct impacts.

[0118]FIG. 5 shows the controller body 10 with the expansion unit 30removed therefrom. The expansion unit 30 has a male connector 31 on theend to be connected to the controller body 10, and the controller body10 has a female connector 26 for expansion on the rear side of thecontroller body 10. The connector 26 for expansion is the end of acircuit substrate (not shown) disposed inside the controller. When theexpansion unit 30 is mounted, the male connector 31 is connected to thefemale connector 26 for expansion of the controller body 10.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 6B, the connector 31 of the expansion unit 30has the shape of a male connector and includes 10 pins P1-P10. The upperrow of the pins includes, from the left, a first pin P1, a third pin P3,a fifth pin P5, a seventh pin P7, and a ninth pin P9, and the lower rowof pins includes, from the left, a second pin P2, a fourth pin P4, asixth pin P6 and tenth pin P10.

[0120] The connector 26 for expansion of the controller body 10 has theshape of a female connector as shown in FIG. 6A and includes to rows ofpins. The upper row of the pins includes, from the left, a ninth pin P9,a seventh pin P7, a fifth pin P5, and a third pin P3 and a first pin P1,and the lower row of the pins includes, from the left, a tenth pin P10,an eighth pin P8, a sixth pin P6, a fourth pin P4, and a second pin P2.

[0121] (Function of the Controller)

[0122] Next, the function of the controller according to the presentembodiment will be explained with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 7 isa block diagram containing an expansion unit 30 mounted on, having noadditional expansion functions, and FIG. 8 is a block diagram containinga expansion unit 40 mounted on, having additional expansion functions.

[0123] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the controller body 10 includes acontrol computer 24 for general control. The control computer 24 detectsoperation signals from the analog direction key 12, the digitaldirection key 14, the start button 16, the command buttons 20 x, 20 y,20 z, 20 a, 20 b, 20 c and the command levers 22 l, 22 r, and outputsthe operation signals in accordance with the operation mode selected bythe change-over switch 18. The controller body 10 includes an expansionconnector 26 for connecting the expansion unit 30.

[0124] As shown in FIG. 7, the expansion unit 30, which adds noexpansion functions, includes a connector 31 for connecting theexpansion unit 30 to the controller body 10, and a signal line from theconnector 31 is connected to a connection cable 32. A connector 33 to beconnected to the connector 202 of the game apparatus body is provided atthe end of the connection cable 32.

[0125] The expansion unit 30 is inserted between the controller body 10and the game apparatus body 200 and outputs command signals as they arereceived from the controller body 10 to the game apparatus body 200.

[0126] As shown in FIG. 8, the expansion unit 40, which adds expansionfunctions, includes the control computer 44 for general control, whichis connected to a function expansion unit 45 for realizing functions tobe expanded. The expansion unit 40 includes a connector 41 forconnecting to the expansion connector 26 of the controller body 10 asdoes the standard expansion unit 30, and a connector 43 to be connectedto a connector 202 of the game apparatus body 200 is provided on the endof the connection cable 42.

[0127] The expansion unit 40 is inserted between the controller body 10and the game apparatus body 200, and the control computer 44 addscommand signals expanded by the function expansion unit 45 to commandsignals from the controller body 10 and outputs them to the gameapparatus body 200.

[0128]FIG. 9 shows a pin arrangement of the connector 41 of theexpansion unit 40, and a pin arrangement of the expansion unit 26 of thecontroller body 10.

[0129] For both connectors 41, 26, the fourth fin P4, the fifth pin P5,and the sixth pin P6 are used mainly as control lines. The fourth pin P4is used as the control line for select signals (TH) from the expansionunit 40 to the controller body 10, the fifth pin P5 is used as thecontrol line for request signals from the expansion unit 40 to thecontroller body 10, and the sixth pin P6 is used as the control line forresponse signals (TL) from the controller body 10 to the expansion unit40.

[0130] The seventh pin P7, the eighth pin P8, the second pin P2, and thethird pin P3 are used mainly as data lines. The seventh pin P7 is usedas the data line for 3-bit data signals (R), the eighth pin P8 is usedas the data line for 2-bit data signals (L), the second pin P2 is usedas the data line for 1-bit data signals (D), and the third pin P3 isused as the data line for 0-bit data signals (U).

[0131] Furthermore, the first pin P1 is used as an electric power sourceline (VCC), and the third pin P3 is used as a grounding line (GND).

[0132] Then, with reference to FIG. 10, conversion of command signalsfrom the controller body by the expansion unit will be explained.

[0133] As shown in FIG. 10A, each of the command signals from thecontroller body 10 include identification codes ID1-ID4, and data DATAfollowing the identification codes ID1-ID4, and an end code END whichindicates the end of the command signals.

[0134] In the case of FIG. 7 in which the expansion unit 30 having noexpansion functions is connected, command signals shown in FIG. 10A areoutputted as they are to the game apparatus body 200. The game apparatusbody 200 determines the type of the connected controller, based on theidentification codes ID1-ID4 and receives the following data signalsDATA.

[0135] In the case of FIG. 8 in which the expansion unit 40 havingexpansion functions is connected, the command signals shown in FIG. 10Aare outputted by the controller body 10, but the identification codesID3, ID4 are changed by the control computer 44 of the expansion unit 40to controller identification codes ID3′, ID4′, as shown in FIG. 10B,which identify the controller as having expansion functions. The gameapparatus 200 determines the type of the connected controller, based onthe identification codes ID1-ID4′ and receives the data signals DATA.

[0136]FIGS. 10C and 10D show examples of the command signal changingprocess. The controller body 10 outputs identification codes [1114] anddata [FFFF] following the identification codes as shown in FIG. 10C, andthe control computer 44 changes the identification signals toidentification signals [1166] and adds data [88] after the data [FFFF]as shown in FIG. 10D.

[0137] The advantages of the expansion unit for the controller accordingto the present embodiment will be explained in comparison of the blockdiagram of the controller according to the present embodiment shown inFIGS. 7 and 8 to the block diagram of the conventional controller shownin FIG. 11.

[0138] In the conventional controller, as shown in FIG. 11, theconnector 28 is disposed on the end of the connection cable 27 of thecontroller body 10, and the connector 18 is connected to the connector202 of the game apparatus body 200. The expansion connector 26 isprovided independently of the connection cable 27 for connection of theexpansion unit 300, and the expansion connector 26 is connected to thecontrol computer 24. The connector 302 of the expansion unit 300 isconnected to the expansion connector 26 to connect the expansion unit300 to the controller body 10.

[0139] The expansion unit of the conventional controller is connected tothe controller computer 24 and is under the control thereof as describedabove. To this end it is necessary that the control computer 24 knows inadvance details of functions of the expansion unit 300 connected to theexpansion connector 26, e.g., identification numbers, etc. indicative ofthe connected expansion functions. This is because it is necessary thatwhen the expansion unit 300 is connected, a type, etc. of the expansionunit 300 are supplied to the game apparatus body 200 through theconnection cable 27. That is, conventionally a connectable type of theexpansion unit 300 must be determined when the controller body 10 isdesigned, and the expansion unit 300 of a type other than the intendedtype when originally designed can not be connected.

[0140] In contrast to the conventional controller arrangement, in thepresent embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the expansion unit 40 isinserted between the controller body 10 and the game apparatus body 200,and the expansion unit 40 processes command signals from the controllerbody 10 to supply the same to the game apparatus body 200. The controlcomputer 24 of the controller body 10 only supplies its own commandsignals. This is because the control computer 44 of the expansion unit40 conducts processing in connection with expansion functions of its ownexpansion unit 40. Accordingly, new functions which are not intendedwhen the controller body 10 was designed can be optionally added.

[0141] Furthermore, the expansion unit for the controller according tothe present embodiment is advantageous in comparison to the case where anew controller having new functions is designed and provided. Indesigning a new controller, basic command keys, such as direction keys,command keys, etc., are necessary for game operation and are absolutelynecessary to retain compatibility with the concurrent controller. It isfrequent cases that in addition to the basic command keys, such asdirection keys and command buttons, etc., command keys for realizing newfunctions are added. To this end a new controller including the basiccommand keys must be redesigned, which makes a fast design impossibleand adds to the design costs.

[0142] In contrast to this, in the present embodiment, the basic commandkeys are controlled by the controller body 10, so that the expansionunit can be designed in consideration of only new functions. This canreduce design costs and development time.

[0143] (Examples of the Expansion Unit)

[0144] Various examples of the expansion unit will be explained withreference to FIGS. 12 to 34.

[0145] (Cordless Expansion Unit)

[0146] An expansion unit 50 shown n FIGS. 12 and 13 realizes a cordlessexpansion unit by the use of infrared signals.

[0147] The expansion unit 50 which adds the cordless function includes aconnector 51 to be connected to the expansion connector 26 of thecontroller body 10 jus as the standard expansion unit 30 is. Theexpansion unit 50 also includes a control computer 53 for generalcontrol, and the control computer 53 has a light emitting unit 52.

[0148] The control computer 53 outputs command signals from thecontroller body 10 as photo signals using the light emitting unit 52. Alight detecting unit 204 of a game apparatus body 200 detects the photosignals from the light emitting unit 52 and decodes the photo signalsinto command signals.

[0149] The expansion unit is thus attached, whereby simply thecontroller is made cordless.

[0150] (Photo Signal Detecting Expansion Unit)

[0151] An expansion unit 60 shown in FIGS. 12 and 14 is for adding thefunction of detecting photo signals from the outside, e.g., the videomonitor (not shown), The expansion unit 60 which adds the photo signaldetecting function includes a connector 61 to be connected to theexpansion connector 26 of the controller body 10 just as the standardexpansion unit 30 is, and includes on the end of a connection cable 62 aconnector 63 to be connected to a connector 202 of a game apparatus body200. The expansion unit 60 includes a control computer 64 for thegeneral control, and the control computer 64 includes a photo detector65.

[0152] Signals detected by the photo detector 65 are added to commandsignals from the controller body 10 by the control computer 64 andsupplied to a game apparatus body 200.

[0153] The photo detector 65 thus detects photo signals from theoutside, e.g., video monitor, whereby shooting games in which enemies inmonitor screens are shot can be played.

[0154] (Vibration Expansion Unit)

[0155] An expansion unit 70 shown in FIGS. 11 and 14 adds the functionof giving vibrations to the controller body 10.

[0156] The expansion unit 70 which adds the vibration function includesa connector 71 to be connected to the expansion connector 26 of thecontroller body 10 just as the standard expansion unit 30 is, and aconnector 73 to be connected to a connector 202 of a game apparatus body200 is provided on the end of a connection cable 72. An electric powersource 76 for giving vibrations is disposed in the connection cable 72.The expansion unit 70 includes a control computer 74 for the generalcontrol, and the control computer 74 includes a vibration unit 75 forgiving vibrations.

[0157] The vibration unit 75 is actuated in response to a command signalfrom the game apparatus body 200 or the controller body 10 and givesvibrations to the controller body 10.

[0158] Vibrations are thus given to the controller body 10 from thevibration unit 75, whereby vibrations are given upon shooting, andrealistic games can be enjoyed.

[0159] (Joy stick Expansion Unit)

[0160] An expansion unit 80 shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 adds a joy stick asa new operation key to the controller body 10.

[0161] In FIG. 16, the expansion unit 80 which adds the joy stick isattached to the rear side of the controller body 10. The expansion unit80 includes a connector 81 to be connected to the expansion connector 26of the controller body 10 just as the standard expansion unit 30 is, anda connector 83 to be connected to a connector 202 of a game apparatusbody 200 is provided on the end of a connection cable 82. The expansionunit 80 includes a control computer 84 for the general control, and thecontrol computer 84 includes the joy stick 85.

[0162] When a player operates the joy stick, operation signals are addedto command signals from the controller body and are supplied to the gameapparatus body 200.

[0163] The joy stick 35 is thus used as a new operation key, andoperations can be made suitable for games.

[0164] In FIGS. 18 and 19, the expansion unit 80 which adds the joystick is attached to the left side of the controller body 10.

[0165] The expansion unit 80 is secured to the controller body 10 bymeans of a screw hole 87 engaged in a screw hole 29 in the back side ofthe controller body 10. Command buttons 86 a, 86 b are provided abovethe joy stick 85 as viewed in FIG. 17.

[0166] When the expansion unit 80 is attached, the joy stick 85 ispositioned on the left side of the analog direction key 12 and thedigital direction key 14, which improves the ease of operation.

[0167] (Track Ball Expansion Unit)

[0168] An expansion unit 80 shown in FIGS. 20 to 23 adds a track ball asa new operation key to the controller body 10.

[0169] In FIG. 20, the expansion unit 80 which adds a tack ball isattached to the rear side of the controller body 10. The expansion unit80 includes the tack ball 88 in place of the joy stick 85. When a playeroperates the track ball, operation signals are added to command signalsfrom the controller body 10 and are supplied to a game apparatus body200.

[0170] The track ball 88 is thus used as a new operation key to makeoperations suitable for games.

[0171] In FIGS. 22 and 23, the expansion unit 80 which adds a track ballis attached to the front side of the controller body 10.

[0172] The expansion unit 80 is secured to the controller body 10 bymeans of a screw 87 engaged in a screw hole 29 in the back side of thecontroller body 10. A decision button 89 a and a cancel button 89 b areprovided above the track ball 88 as viewed in FIG. 22.

[0173] When the expansion unit 80 is thus attached, the track ball 88 ispositioned in front of the controller body 10, which improves the easeof operation.

[0174] (Memory Expansion Unit)

[0175] An expansion unit 90 shown in FIGS. 24 and 25 adds a memorymodule 96 to the controller body 10.

[0176] The expansion unit 90 which adds the memory module 96 includes aconnector 91 to be connected to the expansion connector 26 of thecontroller body 10, and a connector 93 to be connected to a connector202 of a game apparatus body 200 is provided on the end of a connectioncable 92. The expansion unit 90 includes a control computer 94 for thegeneral control, and the control computer 94 includes a memory slot 95.The memory module 96 is engaged in the memory slot 95.

[0177] The memory module 96 can be used in various ways. For example,information from the game apparatus body 200 or the controller body 10may be stored. In addition, information to the game apparatus body 200or the controller body 10 may also be stored.

[0178] The memory is thus added, whereby functions of the game apparatuscan be enhances.

[0179] (Display Expansion Unit)

[0180] An expansion unit 100 shown in FIGS. 26 and 27 adds an imagedisplay unit 105 to the controller body 10.

[0181] The expansion unit 100 which adds the image display unit 105includes a connector 101 to be connected to the expansion connector 26of the controller body 10, and a connector 103 to be connected to aconnector 202 of a game apparatus body 200 is provided on the end of aconnection cable 102. The expansion unit 100 incudes a control computer104 for the general control, and the control computer 104 includes theimage display unit 105. As shown in FIG. 26, the image display unit 105is positioned so it can be viewed by a player operating the controllerbody 10.

[0182] The image display unit 105 can be used in various ways. Forexample, the image display unit 105 may display information from eitherthe game apparatus body 200 or the controller body 10.

[0183] The image display unit 105 is thus added, whereby functions ofthe game apparatus can be enhanced.

[0184] (Clock Expansion Unit)

[0185] An expansion unit 110 shown in FIGS. 28 and 29 adds a clockfunction to the controller body 10.

[0186] The expansion unit 110 for adding the clock function includes aconnector 111 to be connected to the expansion connector 26 of thecontroller body 10 just as the standard expansion unit 30, and aconnector 113 to be connected to the expansion connector 26 of thecontroller body 10 is provided on the end of a connection cable 112. Theexpansion unit 110 includes a control computer 114 for the generalcontrol. The control computer 114 includes a clock unit 116 for countingtime and outputs a correct current time. The clock unit 116 includes atime display unit 115. The time display unit 115 display a current time,etc. outputted by the clock unit 116. As shown in FIG. 28, the timedisplay unit 115 is positioned so it can be viewed by a player operatingthe controller body 10.

[0187] The clock unit 116 outputs to the game apparatus body 200 acurrent time, the length of time that the controller has been connectedto the game apparatus body 200, the time when a game is started, etc.,and can be used for timing event occurrences in a game.

[0188] The clock function is thus added, whereby functions of the gameapparatus can be enhanced.

[0189] (Handle Expansion Unit)

[0190] An expansion unit 120 shown in FIGS. 30 to 32 makes use of thecircular shape of the controller body 10 to use the controller body 19as a handle (rotational control).

[0191] As shown in FIG. 30, the expansion unit 120 which add the handlefunction includes a support base 126, and a handle shaft 127 isprojected from the support base 126. The handle shaft 127 can berotated, and the controller body 10 is secured to the handle shaft 127by means of a screw. As shown in FIG. 31, a rotary angle detector 125detects the rotation angle of the handle shaft 127 and outputs the angleto a control computer 124.

[0192] As shown in FIG. 32, when a player operates the controller body10 as a handle, operation signals are added to command signals from thecontroller body 10 and are supplied to the game apparatus body 200.

[0193] The controller body 10 is thus used as a handle to makeoperations suitable for games.

[0194] (Inclination Detection Expansion Unit)

[0195] An expansion unit 130 shown in FIGS. 33 and 34 adds the functionof detecting the inclination of the controller body 10.

[0196] The expansion unit 130 which adds the function of an inclinationincludes a connector 131 to be connected to the expansion connection ofthe controller body 10 just as the standard expansion unit 30 is, and aconnector 133 to be connected to a connector 202 of a game apparatusbody 200 is provided on the end of a connection cable 132. The expansionunit 130 includes a control computer 134 for the general control, andthe control computer 134 includes an inclination detecting unit 135. Theinclination detecting unit 135 detects an inclination angle of thecontroller body 10. Detected signals of the inclination detecting unit135 are added by the control computer 134 to command signals from thecontroller body 130 and are outputted to the game apparatus body 200.

[0197] The detected signal of the inclination detecting unit 135 can beused in various ways. For example, in the game shown in FIG. 20, anairplane is operated, the control is made so that the airplane is tiltedby an inclination of the controller body 10.

[0198] As described above, according to the present embodiment,expansion units can be attached to the conventional controller, wherebythe controller can have optional additional functions. In the presentembodiment, the expansion unit is inserted between the game apparatusbody and the controller body, and based on expanded functions, commandsignals form the controller body are changed by the expansion unit, andsupplies to the game apparatus body, whereby completely new functionscan be optionally added without making changes to the controller body.

[0199] [A Second Embodiment]

[0200] The controller according to a second embodiment will be explainedwith reference to FIGS. 34 to 36. FIG. 35 is plan view of the controlleraccording to the present embodiment. FIG. 36 is a front view of thecontroller according to the present embodiment. FIG. 37 is a right sideview of the controller according to the present embodiment. The samemembers and members of the same kinds of the present embodiment as thoseof the first embodiment are represented by the same reference numeralsnot to repeat or simplify their explanation.

[0201] The controller according to the present embodiment is the same asthe first embodiment in that the basic shape of the outside edge of acontroller body 10 is circular, and includes two lugs 11 l, 11 rprojected toward a player holding the controller body 10.

[0202] In the first embodiment, the left side of the controller body 10is formed in a larger-diameter arcuate portion so that when a playergrips the controller body 10, he can know the upward direction of aanalog direction key 12 by the touch of the palm. In the presentembodiment, because of the lug 11 l, the controller body 10 hassubstantially the same shape on both the left and right sides. A playerknows the upward direction of the analog direction key 12 by touching ofthe lugs 11 l, 11 r.

[0203] When a player holds the lugs 11 l, 11 r with his hands, heoperates: the analog direction key 12 or a digital direction key 14 onthe surface of the controller body 10 with the left thumb, the commandlever 22 l with the left index or middle finger, the command buttons 20x, 20 y, 20 z, 20 z, 20 b, 20 c on the surface of the controller body 10with the right thumb, and the command lever 22 r on the back side withthe right index or middle finger.

[0204] In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 35, conical groovesare formed in the top surface of the analog direction key 12 with nocross pattern. The analog direction key 12 can indicate all directions,and even if a cross pattern is formed, the direction of the crosspattern do not always agree with a direction indicated by the analogdirection key 12. The cross pattern may rather puzzle players. This isbecause the conical grooves alone are formed. The conical grooves act asan anti-slipping means in operating the analog direction key 12.

[0205] Thus, according to the present embodiment, the lugs make thecontroller convenient for a player to grip during operation.

[0206] (Inclination Detection Expansion Unit with Vibration Function)

[0207] Then, as an example of the expansion unit of the presentembodiment, an inclination detection expansion unit with a vibrationfunction will be explained with reference to FIGS. 38 to 42. FIG. 38 isa perspective view of the present expansion unit. FIG. 39 is back sideview of the present expansion unit removed from the controller body.FIG. 40 is a broken perspective view of the present expansion unit. FIG.41 is a block diagram of the present expansion unit. FIG. 42 is viewsexplaining an operation of the present expansion unit.

[0208] The inclination detection expansion unit with vibration function140 adds the function of detecting an inclined state of the controllerbody 10 and the function of vibrating the controller body 10.

[0209] As shown in FIG. 38, as does the standard expansion unit 30, theexpansion unit 140 includes a connector 141 to be connected to theexpansion connector 26 of the controller body 10, and a connector 143 tobe connected to the connector 202 of the game apparatus body 200 isprovided on an end of a connection cable 142. As shown in FIG. 39, theexpansion unit 140 is mounted on the back side of the controller body10.

[0210] A structure of the inclination detection expansion unit withvibration function will be detailed with reference to FIG. 40. Theexpansion unit 140 includes a main circuit substrate 150. A connectorsubstrate 151 is connected to one end of the main circuit substrate 150.An acceleration sensor 152 and a microcomputer 153 are mounted on themain circuit substrate 150. The acceleration sensor 152 can detect arotation angle (a roll angle and a pitch angle) from an initialposition. The main circuit substrate 150 is connected to a vibrationmotor 154. A semi-circular eccentric weight 154 is mounted on the rotaryshaft of the vibration motor 154, and when the vibration motor 154 isrotated, vibrations are generated by the eccentric weight 154 a.

[0211] The main circuit substrate 150 is secured to the case 155. Thevibration motor 154 is fit in the box 155 a in the case 155. Theconnector substrate 151 is secured to a case 156. The case 155 iscovered by a case 157 with the connection cable 142 therebetween.

[0212] A function of the inclination detection expansion unit withvibration function 140 will be explained with reference to FIG. 41. Theexpansion unit 140 includes a control computer 144 for general control.The control computer 144 includes an inclination detection unit 145 anda vibration unit 146.

[0213] The control computer 144 includes a microcomputer 153 andgenerally controls the expansion unit 140. The inclination detectionunit 145 includes the acceleration sensor 152 and detects an inclinationangle of the controller body 10. A detection signal of the inclinationdetection unit 145 is added by the control computer 144 to a commandsignal from the controller body 140 to be supplied to the game apparatusbody 200. The vibration unit 146 includes a vibration motor 154 andvibrates, based on a vibration command signal from the game apparatusbody 200 or the controller body 10 to give vibrations to the controllerbody 10. Source electric power of the vibration motor 154 is supplied bthe game apparatus body 200.

[0214] Then, the inclination detecting function will be detailed.

[0215] By mounting the expansion unit 140 on the controller body 10, aninclination angle of the controller can be detected. An inclinationangle is represented by a rotation angle (a roll angle and a pitchangle) on the controller. A roll angle TX is represented as shown inFIG. 42A; as viewed at the back of the controller, when a central rollangle Tx is 80h, a rightist roll angle TX is 00h, and a leftist rollangle TX is FFh. A pitch angle is represented as shown in FIG. 42B; asviewed sideways, when a forward pitch angle TY is 80h, a lowermost pitchangle TY is 00h, and an uppermost pitch angle TY is FFh.

[0216] Accordingly, when the controller is tilted right, a roll angle TXis decreased, and a roll angle TX is increased when the controller istilted left. When the controller is tilted downward, a pitch angle TY isdecreased, and a pitch angle TY is increased when the controller istilted upward.

[0217] An inclination angle of the inclination detection unit 145 isautomatically centered in prescribed occasions while the controller ispositioned in the central direction (a roll angle TX=80h, a pitch angleTY=80h). An inclination angle is automatically centered, e.g., whensource electric power is supplied to the game apparatus body 200, thecontroller is connected to the game apparatus body 200, source electricpower is supplied to the expansion unit 140, a mode is changed byoperation of the change-over switch 18 of the controller body 10, theexpansion unit 140 is connected to the controller body 10, and a resetsignal is supplied from the game apparatus body 200.

[0218] An inclination angle has an insensitive range so that thecontroller does not react to a slight change of the inclination angle,and when an inclination angle changes by ?12 degrees, the controllerjudges that no inclination has took place. It is possible that aninsensitive range of an inclination angle is changeable in response to asignal from the game apparatus body 200. Inclination sensitivity can beadjusted in accordance with a game.

[0219] It is also possible that a signal indicative an inclination angleof the inclination detection unit 145 is replaced by a command signalfrom the analog direction key 12 or a digital direction key 14 bychanging a mode. This operation can be made by changing an inclinationof the controller in place of operating the analog direction ky 12 orthe digital direction key 14.

[0220] Then, the vibration function will be detailed.

[0221] The expansion unit 140 is connected to the controller body 10,whereby vibrations can be given to the controller. An intensity of thevibrations can be set by a signal from the game apparatus body 200. Theintensity can be adjusted to be, e.g., 8 stages from a vibrationintensity =0 (no vibration) to a vibration intensity =1 to 7.

[0222] To ensure safety upon the vibration, source electric power of thevibration motor 154 is supplied by the game apparatus body 200, so thatthe vibration is stopped by disconnecting the connector 143 of theexpansion unit 140 from the game apparatus body 220. The vibration isforcedly stopped when no signal is outputted from the game apparatusbody 200 within a prescribed period of time. Thus a danger that thevibration is not stopped when the game apparatus body 200 is hung up orwhen the reset switch is pressed can be prevented. The vibration isforcedly stopped when a mode is changed by the change-over switch 18 ofthe controller body 10.

[0223] The inclination detection expansion unit with vibration functionof this example has a wide variety of uses. For example, the inclinationdetecting function is used, and the controller itself is operated as thehandle of a car. It is possible that the vibration function is used togive trivial vibrations when the car is driven on a bad road, and strongvibrations are given when the car collides. It is also possible that theinclination detecting function is used to operate the controller itselfas the column of an airplane. The vibration function may be used to givetrivial vibrations for landing of the airplane, and strong vibrationsmay be given when the airplane is shot.

[0224] [A Third Embodiment]

[0225] The controller according to a third embodiment of the presentinvention will be explained with reference to FIGS. 48 to 50. FIG. 43 isa plan view of the controller according to the present embodiment. FIG.45 is a right side view of the controller according to the presentembodiment. FIG. 46 is a bottom view of the controller according to thepresent embodiment.

[0226] As shown in FIG. 43, two grips 512 l, 512 r for a player to holdwith the hands are extended from a controller body 510 toward theplayer. A connection cable 514 to be connected to a game apparatus body(not shown) is provided at the center of the side opposite to the grips512 l, 512 r of the controller body 510.

[0227] A start button 516 is provided at the lower central part of anoperational surface 510 a which is the upper surface of the controllerbody 510. A direction key 518 for commanding directions is provided onthe left side of the operational surface 510 a. Six command buttons 520x, 520 y, 520 z, 520 a, 520 b, 520 c are provided on the right side ofthe operational surface 510 a.

[0228] As shown in FIG. 44, a bulge 510 b is provided at the centralbackside of the controller body 510. The bulge 510 b and the two grips512 l. 512 r enable the controller body 510 to be mounted stable on aflat surface, as of a table or the like. Parts of the backside of thecontroller body 510, which are on both sides of the bulge are recessed,and command levers 522 l, 522 r are provided on operational surfaces 510c, 510 d which are the recessed parts on both sides of the bulge.

[0229] Further, on the operational surface 510 c which is the backsideof the controller 510 there is provided a change-over switch 524 forswitching functions of a cross key 518.

[0230] Thus, the controller according to the present embodiment includesthe start button 516, the direction key 518 and the command buttons 520x, 520 y, 520 z, 520 a, 520 b, 520 c on the operational surface 510 awhich is the upper surface a start button 516, and includes the commandlevers 522 l, 522 r and the change-over switch 524 on the operationalsurfaces 510 c, 510 d which are the backside of the controller.

[0231] The start button 516 is a command button of the type that onecommand can be inputted by once pressing the start button. The startbutton is disposed at the lower central part of the upper surface, whichmakes it difficult to frequently press the start button. The startbutton is used to make commands, such as a start command for starting agame, or others, which do not require pressing the start button during agame.

[0232] The direction key 518 of the present embodiment can makedirection commands for 8 preset directions which are spaced from eachother, the so-called digital direction commands, and also makecontinuous direction commands which command all the directions over360°, the so-called analog direction commands. The direction key 518 isdisposed on the left side of the operational surface 510 a on the uppersurface and is usually operated by the left thumb of a player.

[0233] A mechanism of the direction key 518 will be detailed withreference to FIG. 47. The direction key 518 is in the form of a circularoperational plate 530 appearing on the operational surface 510 a. On theupper surface of the operational plate 530, a cross-shaped relief isformed as a mark for facilitating a player knowing an operationaldirection. The operational plate 530 is connected to a circular plate534 provided inner of the operational surface 510 a. The circular plate534 is integrated with the operational plate 530 and is moved followingthe operational plate 530.

[0234] On the underside of the circular plate 534 there are providedconvexities 535 at positions corresponding to four directions, upper anddownward, and left and right directions. A base plate 536 is providedbelow the circular plate 534, and rubber switches 538 are provided atpositions opposed to the convexities 535 on the circular pate 534.

[0235] When a player operates to tilt the operational plate 530 in onedirection, the associated convexity 535 presses down the associatedrubber switch 538 to short-circuit an electrode pattern (not shown) onthe base plate 536 to detect the operational direction. When theoperational plate 530 is tilted in one of the upper and downward, andleft and right directions, the associated rubber switch 538 is pressedown, whereby the four directions can be detected. When the operationalplate 530 is tilted in a direction between the upward and the downdirections and the left and the right directions, and their adjacentdirections, two rubber switches are pressed down together, and totally 8directions including the upper and the downward directions and the leftand the right directions can be detected.

[0236] Secular encoders 540 are provided on the circular plate 534 atthe ends of two directions crossing each other. Each encoder 540 hasholes 540 a opened at a certain interval along the peripheral edgethereof. As shown in FIG. 47, the secular encoders 540 are moved up anddown on a vicinity of the rod 532 corresponding to an inclination of thecircular plate 534. Photo-interrupters 542 are disposed, holding theperipheral edges of the respective encoders 540.

[0237] Each photo-interrupters 542 includes a light emitting device (notshown) and a photo-detecting device (not shown), and detects presenceand absence of an object in an optical path between the light emittingdevice and the photo-detecting device. When the encoder 540 is moved upand down, the associated photo-interrupter 542 detects passing of theholes 540 a to detect vertical positions of the encoder. The encoders534 are disposed along two directions of the circular plate 534, whichcrosses each other. Based on vertical positions of the two encoders 540,a direction of tilt of the circular plate 543 can be known. Thus anarbitrary direction of the operational plate 530 operated by a playercan be detected, and all directions over 360° can be commanded.

[0238] As described above, the direction key 518 of the presentembodiment can make not only 8 digital direction commands, but also allanalog direction commands over 360°. The digital direction command andthe analog direction command can be changed over to each other by thechange-over switch 524 provided on the backside of the controller body510.

[0239] The command buttons 520 x, 520 y, 520 z, 520 a, 520 b, 520 c areof the type that one command can be inputted by once pressing them, asis the start button 516. The command buttons 520 x, 520 y, 520 z, 520 a,520 b, 520 c are disposed on the right side of the upper surface of theoperational surface 510 a and are operated usually by the right thumb ofan operator.

[0240] The command levers 522 l, 522 r are pulled toward the foregroundto input command amounts which are continuously changed. The commandlevers 522 l, 522 r are disposed on the left and the right operationalsurfaces 510 c, 510 d of the backside. As shown in FIG. 49, the commandlevers 522 l, 522 r are pulled toward the foreground by, e.g., the indexfingers or the middle fingers when a player holds the controller withthe grips 512 l, 512 r with the left and the right hands.

[0241] Mechanisms of the command levers 522 l, 522 r will be explainedwith reference to FIGS. 46 and 48. The mechanisms of the command levers522 l, 522 r are the same except that they are horizontally symmetricalto each other, and the command lever 522 l shown on the right side inFIG. 46 will be explained. FIG. 48 is explanatory views of componentmembers of the command lever 522 l, which explain their relationshipsand shows the mechanism of the command lever 522 l as viewed on theright side.

[0242] As shown in FIG. 46, the command levers 522 l, 522 r haveoperational levers 550 which are projected beyond the operationalsurface 510 c. As shown in FIG. 48B, the operational lever 550 includesa shaft 550 b provided at the root of a secular operational portion 550a, and the shaft 550 b is bent at a right angle. The operational portion550 a of the operational lever 550 is pulled toward the foreground andis rotated on the shaft 550 b.

[0243] A detection mechanism for detecting an operational angle of thecommand lever 522 l is disposed in the projected in the bulge 510 b ofthe controller body 510. The detection mechanism includes a seculargear, a circular encoder 554 and a photo-interrupter 561 l.

[0244] The secular gear 552 has teeth formed in the arcuate periphery,and a shaft 552 a disposed at the center thereof. The shaft 552 a isbent at a right angle and further at a right angle. The secular gear 552is rotated on the shaft 552 a.

[0245] An end of the shaft 552 a of the secular gear 552 abuts upon anend of an end 552 b of the shaft 552 a, and when the operational lever550 is rotated on the shaft 550 b, the end 550 c of the shaft 550 bpushes the end 552 b of the secular gear 552 to rotate the secular gear550 c.

[0246] As shown in FIG. 48A, the circular encoder 554 has holes 554 aformed in the peripheral edge at a certain interval. The circular gear554 b is formed on the center of the circular encoder 554. As shown inFIG. 48A, the circular gear 554 b is in mesh with the circular gear 552,and when the circular gear 552 is rotated, the circular encoder 554 isrotated through the circular gear 554 b.

[0247] A photo-interrupter 556 l is disposed, holding the circularencoder 554 therebetween, and passing of the holes 554 a in the circularencoder 554 is detected to detect rotation angles of the circularencoder 554 and rotation angles of the operational lever 550. Thecommand levers 522 l, 522 r are thus operated to supply continuouslychanging command amounts corresponding to rotation angles of theoperational leer 550, which cannot be supplied by the command buttons520 x, 520 y, 520 a. 520 b, 520 c.

[0248] When a player operates the controller according to the presentembodiment, holding the controller with the hands, as shown in FIG. 49,the left and the right grips 512 of the controller body 510 are held bythe left and the right hands. The left hand operates the direction keyon the surface with the thumb, and the command lever 522 l on thebackside with the thumb and the middle finger. The right hand operatesthe command buttons 520 x, 520 y, 520 z, 520 a, 520 b, 520 c on thesurface with the thumb, and the command lever 522 r on the backside withthe index finger or the middle finger. As described above, according tothe present embodiment, continuously changing commands can be made,which the conventional controller has found impossible, and commands ofarbitrary directions and commands of continuously changing directionscan be made. The command levers provided on the backside of thecontroller allows more complicated command to be made. Furthermore,complicated commands can be relatively easily with the grips stablyheld.

[0249] When the controller according to the present embodiment is placedon a flat surface, such as a desk, with three points of the bulge 510 band the grips 512 l, 512 r supported on the flat surface, and thecontroller can be operated in a stable state. When the controller isplaced on a flat surface, such as a desk, as shown in FIG. 45, theoperational surface 510 a, which is the upper surface of the controllerwith the direction key 510 and the command buttons 520 x-520 c providedon is parallel with the flat surface, such as the desk, which enables aplayer to easily operate the direction key 518 and the command buttons520 x-520 c.

[0250] When the controller is placed on a desk or the like, as shown inFIG. 45, the command levers 522 l, 522 r do not abut on the desk anddefine a space which allows the controller to be operated with fingers,and the command levers can be easily operated with both hands placed onthe grips 512 l, 512 r.

[0251] It is often that the controller is roughly handled, and becauseof the command levers 522 l, 522 r disposed in the operational surfaces510 c, 510 d which are cavities beside the bulge 510 b on the backsideof the controller body 510, even when the controller is dropped or ishit against another object, the command levers 522 l, 522 r areprevented from direct impact.

[0252] Then, a circuit diagram of the controller according to thepresent embodiment will be explained with reference to the block diagramof FIG. 50.

[0253] For the digital direction command by the direction key 514, anupper contact 538 a, a lower contact 538 c, a left contact and a rightcontact 538 d are constituted by the rubber switch 538, and correspondto the upper and the downward directions and the left and the rightdirections. Outputs from the respective contacts 538 a-538 d areinputted to direction key direction determining means 560. Based on theoutputs, the direction key direction determining means 560 determines adirection of an inclination of the operational plate 530 commanded bythe direction key 514.

[0254] On the other hand, for the analog direction command by thedirection key 514, photo-interrupters 542 a, 542 b are disposed indirections of the circular plate 534 crossing each other. Thephoto-interrupters 542 a, 542 b respectively include counting means 562a, 562 b for counting numbers of holes 540 a of encoders 540, which havepassed. Based on counted values given by the counting means 562 a, 562b, direction key inclination direction computing means 564 aninclination direction of an inclination of the circular plate 534commanded by the direction key 514. A most inclined direction is acommanded direction.

[0255] Outputs of the direction key determining means 560 and thedirection key inclination direction computing means 564 are changed overto each other to be inputted to data input/output control unit 570.

[0256] A output of the start button 516 is inputted directly in the datainput/output control unit 570.

[0257] The photo-interrupter 556 l of the command lever 522 l and thephoto-interrupter 556 r of the command lever 522 r respectively includescounting means 566 l, 566 r, and counts numbers of holes 554 a incircular encoders, which have passed. Based on counted values given bythe counting means 556 l, command lever angle computing means 568 lcomputes a rotation angle of the operational lever 550 commanded by thecommand lever 522 r.

[0258] Computed outputs from the command lever angle computing means 568l, 568 r are inputted to data input/output control unit 570.

[0259] Outputs of the command buttons 520 x, 520 y, 520 z, 520 a, 520 b,520 c are inputted directly to the data input/output control unit 570.

[0260] The data input/output control unit 570 receives signals from theabove-described component members to select necessary data correspondingto a data request outputted by the game apparatus body 600 and suppliesthe data to the game apparatus body 600 through the cable 514.

[0261] Source electric power of the entire controller is supplied by thegame apparatus body 600 through the cable 514.

[0262] As described above, according to the present embodiment, thecommand lever is operated to make continuously changing command whichhas been impossible in the conventional controller. Arbitrary directioncommands can be made by detecting an inclination direction of theoperational plate. Furthermore, the command levers are disposed on theoperational surface, which is the backside of the controller, so thatwhen the controller is held with the hands, the command levers can beoperated with the index fingers and middle fingers, and can be easilysubtly operated.

[0263] The controller according to the present embodiment can realizenatural and comfortable operational feelings in games on which theconventional controller has found it difficult. In a racing game, forexample, the direction key is used in steering a handle, the commandbuttons are used in the gear shift operation and the shift leveroperation, the left command lever is used in braking, and the rightcommand lever is used in acceleration, whereby subtle operations can berealized with natural feelings.

[0264] [Modified Embodiment]

[0265] The present invention is not limited to the above-describedembodiments and covers other various modifications.

[0266] For example, the expansion units described in the above-describedfirst and second embodiments are examples and may include thoseembodiments which add other functions.

[0267] The direction key of the controller may have a mechanism otherthan the above-described mechanism of the third embodiment to detect aninclination direction of the direction key. It is also possible todetect an arbitrary angle, based on a direction of an inclination of anoperational unit, such as a joy stick.

[0268] In the above-described third embodiment, the digital directioncommand and the analog direction command by the direction key arechanged over to each other by the change-over switch, but it is possiblethat the change-over switch is not provided, and the key directionitself is operated to change over the digital and analog directioncommand to each other. It is also possible that data of both a digitaldirection command and an analog direction command are supplied for thegame apparatus body to selectively use the data.

[0269] The command levers of the controller may have a mechanism otherthe above-described mechanism of the controller according to the thirdembodiment to detect continuously changing command amounts. It ispossible to provide command buttons for outputting one command by oneoperation in place of the command levers provided on the operationalsurface, which is the backside of the controller body, and when thecontroller is held with the hands, the controller can be easily operatedwith the fingers other than the thumbs, which are not used, and can havemore command buttons than the conventional controller.

[0270] In the above-described embodiments, the present invention isapplied to the controller to be used with a game apparatus, but may beapplied to controllers as an input means for controlling electronicdevices other than game apparatuses.

[0271] In the present specification, “continuously” in “continuouslychanging”, “continuous command directions”, etc. include not only theso-called continuous analog amounts, but also digital amounts of digitalsignals converted from analog signals, which strictly are not continuousand discrete, but can be seen as continuous in terms of signalprocessing.

[0272] [Industrial Applicability]

[0273] The present invention is suitable as a controller for supplyingvarious command to an electronic apparatus by operation of thecontroller by an operator, more specifically as a controller of a gameapparatus, for supplying commands corresponding to game contents

1. A controller expansion unit which is to be inserted between acontroller body including an operation key and a game apparatus, andwhich supplies a command signal generated by the operation key of thecontroller body to the game apparatus body.
 2. A controller expansionunit according to claim 1, comprising: function expansion means forexpanding a function of the controller body; and conversion means forconverting the command signal from the controller body, based on afunction expanded by the function expansion means, and supplying theconverted command signal to the game apparatus body.
 3. A controllerexpansion unit according to claim 2, wherein the function expansionmeans includes photo signal outputting means for outputting the signalto the game apparatus body as a photo signal, and the photo signaloutputted by the photo signal outputting means is detected by photosignal detecting means of the game apparatus body.
 4. A controllerexpansion unit according to claim 4, wherein the function expansionmeans includes photo signal detecting means for detecting a photo signalfrom the outside, and the conversion means adds the photo signal fromthe photo signal detecting means to the command signal from thecontroller body.
 5. A controller expansion unit according to claim 2,wherein the function expansion means includes vibration means for givinga vibration to the controller body, based on the signal from the gameapparatus body or the controller body.
 6. A controller expansion unitaccording to claim 2, wherein the function expansion means includes anoperation key for effecting a specific operation, and the conversionmeans adds an operation signal generated by the specific operation keyto the command signal from the controller body.
 7. A controllerexpansion unit according to claim 2, wherein the function expansionmeans includes memory means for storing information, and the memorymeans stores information supplied from the game apparatus body or thecontroller body, or information supplied to the game apparatus body orthe controller body.
 8. A controller expansion unit according to claim2, wherein the function expansion means includes display means fordisplaying information, and the display means displays information fromthe game apparatus body or the controller body.
 9. A controllerexpansion unit according to claim 2, wherein the function expansionmeans includes clock means for counting time, and time display means fordisplaying time, and the conversion means adds time information countedby the clock means to the command signal from the controller body.
 10. Acontroller expansion unit according to claim 2, wherein the functionexpansion means includes rotation angle detecting means for detecting arotation angle of the controller body supported thereon, and theconversion means adds a rotation angle signal detected by the rotationangle detecting means to the command signal from the controller body.11. A controller expansion unit according to claim 2, wherein thefunction expansion means includes inclination detecting means fordetecting an inclination of the controller body, and the conversionmeans adds an inclination signal detected by the inclination detectingmeans to the command signal supplied from the controller body.
 12. Acontroller expansion unit according to claim 11, wherein the conversionmeans supplies an inclination signal given by the inclination detectingmeans in place of a direction command signal from the controller body.13. A controller comprising: a controller body including an operationkey; and a controller expansion unit according to any one of claims 1 to12.
 14. A controller comprising, on an operation surface of a body ofthe controller, a direction key for a direction command, and a pluralityof command buttons for outputting a single command, the operationsurface of the controller body having a substantially circular outeredge so that an operator can grip the controller body at any positionsaround the outer edge of the operation surface.
 15. A controlleraccording to claim 14, wherein a part of the outer edge of the operationsurface of the controller body is shaped in relation to a specificdirection of the direction key so that, when the operator grips theoperation surface with his hand, he can know the specific direction ofthe direction key.
 16. A controller according to claim 14, wherein thecontroller body includes lugs to be held by the operator, and a part ofa lug is shaped in relation to a specific direction of the direction keyso that, when the operator grips the operation surface with his hand, hecan know the specific direction of the direction key.
 17. A controllercomprising: a controller body; a direction key disposed on a firstoperational surface of the controller body, and commanding a direction;a plurality of command buttons disposed on the first operational surfaceand outputting one command by one operation; and a command leverdisposed on a second operational surface of the controller andoutputting continuously changed command amounts by one operation.
 18. Acontroller according to claim 17, wherein the direction key comprises: adirection key operating unit; discrete direction determining means fordetermining a specific direction out of a plurality of prescribeddirections, based on a state of the direction key operation unit; andcontinuous direction determining means for determining continuouscommand directions, based on a state of the direction key operationunit.
 19. A controller according to claim 18, wherein the direction keyfurther including change-over means for changing over the discretedirection determining means and the continuous direction determiningmeans to each other.
 20. A controller according to any one of claims 17to 19, wherein the command lever is a command button which outputs onecommand by one operation.
 21. A controller according to any one ofclaims 17 to 19, wherein the direction key and the command buttons aredisposed at positions which facilitate operation with the left and theright thumbs of an operator when he holds the controller with the leftand the right hands, and the command lever is disposed at a positionwhich facilitates operation with the fingers other than the thumbs. 22.A controller according to any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein thecontroller body includes two grips to be held by an operator; and thedirection key and the command buttons are disposed at positions whichfacilitate operation with the left and the right thumbs of the operatorwhen he holds the two grips with the left and the right hands, and thecommand lever is disposed at a position which facilitates operation withthe fingers other than the thumbs.
 23. A controller according to claim22, wherein a projection is provided on the second operational surfaceof the controller body; the controller can be placed on a flat surface,supported by the projection and the two grips; the direction key and thecommand buttons are disposed at positions which facilitate operationwith the left and the right thumbs of an operator when the controller isplaced on a flat surface, and the command lever is disposed at aposition which facilitates with the fingers other than the thumbs.
 24. Agame apparatus connected to the controller according to any one ofclaims 13 to 23 and executing a game to be controlled by a command fromthe controller.